Becoming a Sign Language Interpreter
Becoming a professional sign language interpreter is an extensive journey. The Interpreting Track of the ASL program is the first step in that journey. We offer foundational courses necessary for students working towards interpreter certification. Graduates with a B.A. in American Sign Language can continue their journey by working with Deaf language mentors and registered interpreters. To assist with planning for an interpreting career, the current requirements to become an interpreter in the state of Kansas are outlined below. Students interested in working as interpreters in other states need to refer to the relevant state agency responsible for interpreter certification/licensure.
The Kansas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (KCDHH) is the agency responsible for the registration of sign language interpreters in the state of Kansas. Please contact them directly at 1-800-432-0698 for further questions regarding certification and refer the Interpreter Registration information provided on the KCDHH website: https://www.kcdhh.ks.gov/communication-services/registration-regulations
Kansas State requirements for interpreters (as of January 2026):
All working interpreters in Kansas, regardless of experience, must be registered with
KCDHH, complete a fingerprinting and background check, and hold one (or more) of the
following certifications:
- Kansas Quality Assurance Screening (KQAS), levels--4/4 or higher; [test no longer provided]
- Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID), national certification; or
- Board of Evaluation of Interpreters (BEI), levels - Advanced or Master levels earned in 2015 or later.
Individuals without the above qualifications must pass the written exam provided by the Registry of Interpreters [NIC Knowledge exam (no longer provided) or the CASLI Generalist Exam] to qualify for provisional registration. To obtain provisional registration or learn more about the registration requirements, contact KCDHH at www.kcdhh.ks.gov.